SALEM: The Kurumbapatti Zoological Park in the foothills of Yercaud in Salem district is set for a major transformation, with plans under way to introduce tigers, leopards and bears by March 2027 as part of efforts to upgrade the facility from a small-category zoo to a medium-category zoo. The proposal has received approval from the Central Zoo Authority, paving the way for the induction of large carnivores and expansion of the park’s wildlife collection.
Spread across 31.73 hectares, the Kurumbapatti Zoological Park houses more than 300 animals and birds and serves as a major recreational and conservation education centre for visitors from Salem and neighbouring districts.
“A dedicated 1,000-square-metre enclosure for a pair of tigers has already been established, while construction of enclosures for leopards and bears is progressing,” said a Tamil Nadu forest department official. Forest department officials have begun developing specialised enclosures and habitats to accommodate the new animals. The upgraded facilities are being designed to meet zoo management and animal welfare standards prescribed by the Central Zoo Authority. The zoo has expanded its collection in recent months with the addition of blackbucks, nilgai (blue bull) and golden jackals brought from the Bannerghatta Biological Park in Bengaluru.
You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Salem | Silver Rate in Salem | Bank Holidays in Salem | Public Holidays in Salem | Salem AQI | Weather in Salem Stay updated with the latest Salem news. Forest officials expect the arrival of tigers, leopards and bears to enhance the zoo’s appeal and strengthen its role in wildlife conservation awareness. The move is expected to boost tourist footfall and support the long-term development of the zoological park as one of western Tamil Nadu’s key wildlife attractions. Download the TOI App.